IPC Chapter 21

Whoever by words either spoken or intended to be read, or by signs or by visible representations, makes or publishes any imputation concerning any person intending to harm, or knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm, the reputation of such person, is said, except in the cases hereinafter excepted, to defame that person.

Whoever by words either spoken or intended to be read, or by signs or by visible representations, makes or publishes any imputation concerning any person intending to harm, or knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm, the reputation of such person, is said, except in the cases hereinafter excepted, to defame that person.

Whoever defames another shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

Whoever prints or engraves any matter, knowing or having good reason to believe that such matter is defamatory of any person,

shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

Whoever sells or offers for sale any printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter, knowing that it contains such matter,

shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.